In 1972, Polaroid® founder Edwin Land revealed the Polaroid® SX-70 to the world. A huge leap forward in the world of instant photography, the SX-70 was the world’s first folding instant camera, with an SLR function that elevated the instant camera to a tool of craft and creativity

The camera’s arrival also introduced the brand’s now iconic integral instant film, creating photos that emerged and developed with no manual processes whatsoever; images that come to life in the palm of the hand.

In the 45 years that have passed since then, the Polaroid® SX-70 has become a cultural icon of the 20th century. Its appeal introduced people around the world to instant photography, and its spirit of spontaneity has endeared it to artists such as Keith Haring, Jean-Michael Basquiat and Andy Warhol.

It’s this blend of culture, creativity and craft that has seen the Polaroid® SX-70 endure as a symbol of self-expression. Edwin Land’s original philosophy was ‘Don’t undertake a project unless it is manifestly important and nearly impossible.’ As the camera that introduced the magic of truly instant photography to the world no other instant camera encapsulates this endeavour like the Polaroid® SX-70.

Impossible Project for more